Bogdan Gecić, founding partner at Gecić Law, along with partners Ognjen Colić and Miodrag Jevtić, shared their insights into one of the most significant telecom transactions in the Balkans in an exclusive CEE Legal Matters interview. In the conversation, the partners reflected on their role as lead counsel in Telekom Srbija’s historic acquisition of NetTV Plus, Total TV operations in Serbia and North Macedonia, and Western Balkans Sport Klub rights licenses from United Group, as part of a EUR 1.5 billion cross-border transaction that reshaped the regional telecommunications landscape.
“This was more than a deal – it was a turning point,” said Bogdan. He emphasized the strategic importance of the transaction, not just for Telekom Srbija but for the entire region. “It demonstrated that world-class, high-value transactions can originate from the Balkans and be led by regional firms.”
Ognjen Colić also highlighted the deal’s complexity. He noted the coordination of merger clearances across four jurisdictions and simultaneous negotiations with parallel transactions. “It was a massive logistical and legal challenge that required flawless execution,” he said. He also credited the team’s multidisciplinary approach and close collaboration with international co-counsel.
Miodrag Jevtić further spoke to the broader implications for the regional legal market: “This deal indeed showed the world what regional firms are capable of. It certainly raised the bar for legal services in the Balkans and inspired confidence in home-grown talent.”
Reflecting on the future, the Gecić Law partners agreed that this transaction indeed sets a precedent for the Western Balkans. “It’s a signal to investors and legal professionals alike: the region is open for complex, high-impact business,” Gecić concluded.
The interview with our partners offers valuable insights into the execution of one of the region’s most impactful M&A deals.
Click the link to access a PDF version of the full CEE Legal Matters interview.
